Animal Kingdom was hardly mentioned among the contenders for the 2011 Kentucky Derby, but as the field rounded the final turn and broke for the home-stretch, it was clear he had something left to show. With John Velazquez on the reigns, Animal Kingdom bolted down the stretch, reeling in Shackleford and Nehro to take the lead. And with about 200 yards to go, Velazquez made the final push, urging Animal Kingdom to go. He responded, dusting the rest of the field at Churchill Downs to take the win in the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby.
And with his long odds, Animal Kingdom paid well. At 20-1, he was far from a favorite, with plenty of questions surrounding his ability to run at Churchill Downs. After all, this was a horse that had never run on dirt before, making him a bit of a wildcard at the Derby.
Those that stuck with him, however, were happy they did when cashing in those winning tickets. Animal Kingdom paid $43.80 to win, $19.60 to place and $13 to shot.Nehro paid $8.80 to place and $6.40 to show. Mucho Macho Man, who finished in third, paid $7 to show. Additionally, a $2 exacta with Animal Kingdom and Nehro paid $329.80, making it an excellent day for gamblers who rode him to the win.
You can find even more information on the race and detailed results here.
With the Kentucky Derby over, it's time for a look back at the week at Churchill Downs. Stay with our 2011 Kentucky Derby StoryStream for more on the race, including full results, recaps and payouts. For more on the race, head over to SB Nation's Kentucky Derby StoryStream or check out And Down The Stretch They Come.
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